what are the benefits of learning a second language essay

Learning a Second Language Essay

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Language is one of the most important tools in our interaction with others. Without language, it is highly unlikely that the human civilization would have developed as it has over the millenniums. For most people, being able to communicate in one language is sufficient. This is especially so if the language is English, French or Germany, all of which are internationally recognized languages.

While it is true that one can be able to comfortably go through life with the knowledge of one language, the person greatly limits his/her potential. This is because there are many advantages to be gained from being proficient in more than one language. This paper shall argue that every person should learn at least one second language so as to reap the benefits that such an undertaking brings to the individual.

We live in a world that is slowly being turned into a global village as a result of advances in transport and communication. Through the process known as globalization, major integration of economies and cultures is becoming rife. In such a world, people are constantly being forced to interact with others who come from different cultural backgrounds.

While in some cases these people from different cultures share a language, there are many instances where there is a language difference. If one has learnt at least one additional language, there is a higher possibility that communication between the people from varying cultures will be possible. As such, acquisition of an additional language will assist in bringing about harmony in a multicultural society.

Scientific studies have proved that learning of a second language may result in the enhancement of the intellectual capabilities of an individual. As a result of learning a second language, a person’s performance in arithmetic as well as his reading skills is greatly increased. This improvement is attributed to the fact that learning a new language results in divergent thinking in the person.

The divergent thinking develops since learning a new language involves not only obtaining a new vocabulary but also learning a different manner of constructing thoughts. Considering the fact that a higher intellectual capability is desirable since it increases the chances of a person succeeding in life, everyone should learn an additional language.

Being proficient in more than one language can give a person an advantage when they are applying for a job. This is because an additional language increases the versatility of an individual therefore making him a greater asset to an organization. Some organizations specifically deal with clients who do not converse in English.

It will therefore be a huge benefit for the organization if it can have a person who can converse in the native language of the clients. Having the knowledge of an additional language can therefore result in the career development of the individual.

This paper set out to argue that everyone should learn an addition language. To reinforce this assertion, this paper has discussed the various merits that acquisition of an additional language can have to not only the individual but the society at large. This paper has demonstrates that learning an additional language can result in the creation of a more harmonious global society.

In addition to this, this paper has shown that learning a different language develops one’s mental ability making them better thinkers and also increasing the individual’s chances to develop their career. For this reasons, everyone should learn at least one second language.

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IvyPanda. (2018, May 17). Learning a Second Language. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-a-second-language/

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IvyPanda . 2018. "Learning a Second Language." May 17, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-a-second-language/.

1. IvyPanda . "Learning a Second Language." May 17, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/learning-a-second-language/.

Bibliography

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Why Students Should Learn a Second Language for Future Success: Exploring the 7 Benefits

Really it depends from your needs and circumstances. In my professional experience, motivation is the only reason students will successfully learn a second language, either is business related, or a new boyfriend or an imminent trip. Some might say that the best language to… — ARTΞME (@StellaAmato4) January 17, 2024

Why Students Should Learn a Second Language — Embracing Multilingualism

Did you know that bilingual or multilingual individuals are often considered the brainiest bunch? Speaking more than one language opens up a world of cognitive advantages that go beyond just mastering new words. Imagine navigating through different cultural contexts with ease, your mind open to diverse perspectives and ideas. This adaptability not only enhances problem-solving skills but also fosters a sense of curiosity and open-mindedness.

7 Benefits Of Learning A Second Language

1. increase in self-confidence and happiness.

The journey of mastering a new language is a profound booster of self-confidence and overall happiness for students. This process not only involves acquiring new vocabulary and grammar but also overcoming challenges and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The sense of achievement that comes from being able to communicate in a foreign language is immense.

Moreover, the positive feedback loop created by increased self-confidence and happiness encourages continued language learning and engagement with other cultures. It can spark a lifelong passion for exploration, both intellectually and geographically, leading to more fulfilling personal and professional lives. In this way, the benefits of language learning extend far beyond the classroom, impacting students’ well-being, social connections, and outlook on life in profound and lasting ways.

2. Enhanced Decision-Making Skills

Discover how the over 7,000 languages worldwide might shape our perception of the world through the lens of the Whorfian hypothesis, which suggests our language influences our thoughts, visions, and understanding of our surroundings—explore this fascinating concept by watching the video.

As students become more adept at making decisions in a second language, they also develop a greater awareness of cultural nuances and perspectives, further enriching their decision-making capabilities. This comprehensive enhancement of cognitive and cultural competence equips students with a robust framework for navigating life’s myriad choices with confidence and wisdom.

3. Strengthened Brain Power and Attention Span

Discover the fascinating changes that occur in the brain during language learning through scans and neuroscience studies by watching this insightful video.

The benefits of strengthened brain power and attention span extend beyond academic achievements. They contribute to a student’s ability to engage in sustained intellectual efforts, pursue long-term goals, and navigate complex problem-solving tasks. Enhanced cognitive function supports deep learning, enabling students to absorb knowledge more thoroughly and apply it creatively.

4. Cultural Understanding

Moreover, the ability to communicate in another language opens up access to a wealth of cultural artifacts—literature, film, music, and more—that enrich students’ educational experiences and personal growth. This exposure to diverse cultural expressions not only enhances students’ understanding of the world but also inspires creativity and innovation.

Cultural understanding fosters an inclusive mindset, crucial for building cohesive societies and working effectively in multicultural teams. In cultivating global citizens, language education plays a pivotal role, in preparing students to contribute positively to a world that values diversity and mutual respect.

5. Improved Academic Performance

Research has shown that bilingual students often outperform their monolingual counterparts on standardized tests, particularly in areas requiring analytical and abstract thinking. The ability to approach problems from different linguistic and cultural perspectives enriches students’ analytical capabilities, leading to more innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of academic material.

Discover the advantages of a bilingual brain by watching this video that explores the remarkable cognitive benefits of being bilingual.

This broad applicability of language skills fosters a versatile academic foundation, enabling students to excel in diverse fields of study. By investing in language education, students not only boost their immediate academic prospects but also lay the groundwork for lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity.

6. Expanded Career Opportunities

In the context of globalization, the question of “should students learn a second language” becomes pertinent, as the ability to speak a second language provides students with a competitive edge in a wide range of industries, marking it as a significant asset in the job market. The Eton Institute’s survey underscores the high-value employers place on multilingual skills, with a clear preference for hiring bilingual candidates.

This preference is due to the versatility and cross-cultural communication skills bilingual individuals bring to the workplace, enabling companies to expand their global reach and connect with a diverse customer base. Bilingual employees often enjoy higher salaries, more job opportunities, and the potential for international travel and assignments, reflecting the premium placed on language skills in the global economy.

Watch this Creative Multilingualism video to see how languages shape identity and play a crucial role in crafting a career path that resonates with young individuals.

Furthermore, the soft skills developed through language learning—such as adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving—are increasingly sought after in today’s workforce. These skills enable individuals to navigate the complexities of international business, foster collaborative relationships, and innovate within multicultural teams.

7. Better Cognitive Abilities

Research from the University of Edinburgh corroborates the cognitive advantages associated with bilingualism. Individuals fluent in more than one language consistently outperform their monolingual counterparts in standardized assessments covering a wide spectrum of areas including reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, vocabulary, and more. This cognitive edge translates into more effective learning and comprehension across a diverse array of academic subjects.

In conclusion, learning a foreign language offers numerous benefits beyond just linguistic proficiency. From personal growth to professional advancement, language acquisition enriches lives and opens doors to new, exciting opportunities in an increasingly interconnected global world.

Best Languages to Learn After English

Choosing the right language to learn after English hinges on identifying your personal motivations and objectives. Whether you’re driven by the challenge of mastering a linguistically diverse language, seeking practical benefits by learning one of the world’s most spoken languages, or aiming for specific academic or professional goals, understanding your “why” is crucial.

Explore the top languages to learn for enhancing your work, study, travel, and retirement abroad by watching this informative video.

Why learn Spanish?

German claims official status in six countries (Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Belgium), with 76 million native speakers. It’s the second most widespread language in Europe and globally counts almost 135 million speakers, with an additional 15 million learners worldwide.

Similar languages: Dutch, Afrikaans

Why learn German?

15 tips to learn a foreign language.

Unlock the secrets to mastering a new language with ease by watching the video featuring 7 essential tips for language learners.

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The benefits of learning a second language

by Jennifer Smith

Learning a new language takes time and dedication. Once you do, being fluent in a second language offers numerous benefits and opportunities. Learning a second language is exciting and beneficial at all ages. It offers practical, intellectual and many aspirational benefits

In today's world, there are over 7,000 languages, and learning at least one will help you in life massively. Although it has been proven that it is easier for children to learn a second language, it is certainly never too late to learn, and the benefits definitely reward the effort and dedication.

Whatever your age, being bilingual certainly has its advantages, especially in today's global society. Here are the top benefits of learning a second language:

Better job prospects

In today's business dominated society, being bilingual can only be an advantage and gives you a competitive edge when searching for jobs, or maintaining your current employment.

Companies who plan to expand into overseas market are constantly looking for bilingual staff, who of which are well-paid and receive excellent benefits, as they will ultiamtely give the company a huge competitive advantage.

By learning a second language, you will be indispensable at your place of work as you can easily bridge the cultural gap between the two countries, and those with the ability to speak a second language are more likely to find a job.

Brain health

Medical studies has shown the positive effects learning a second language has on the brain.

Studies showed that learning a second language significantly delayed the onset of many brain related diseases such as Alzheimer and dementia, compared to those who can only speak their native tongue.

Travel and leisure

Learning a new language opens up a world of new opportunities. If you choose to learn a commonly spoken language, such as Spanish, French or German, you can travel practically anywhere in the world and not have trouble with translations.

You can confidently go about your business and in another country and speak freely to locals and other travellers. You will have a much better experience as you can effectively communicate with much more people, which will ultimately open up your mind and put things into different perspectives regarding the different cultures of the world.

Improved first language

As we go about our everyday lives, we rarely give a second thought to our own grammatical structure and vocabulary. However, when learning a new language, many people find they have a greater understanding of their first language.

Learning a second language focuses your attention on the grammatical rules constructions of that language. This experience gives people a new insight into their own language and ultimately leads to them improving their mother tongue, which will improve their everyday lives.

Improved understanding of the world

Learning a new language gives you a greater global understanding of the world we live in. Even by learning a few phrases, never mind a whole language, you will access many fascinating cultures around the world and understand the differences between the two countries.

You will have access to a whole new array of film, music and literature, and a greater understanding of the history and culture of the nation and ultimately a better understanding of the way the world works, including politics and security.

Experience new cultures

The world is a cauldron of rich and interesting cultures. Learning a new language allows you to access many different cultures across the world.

You will have the chance to see fascinating new things from a new perspective, which not many people can, and connect with the new people all over the world.

Different culture has its own music, style, history, literature and many more interesting things which you will be able to enjoy and understand. You will be able to connect through books, TV, the internet and converse with a whole countries worth of people, ultimately broadening your horizons, interests and views. A whole new world will be open to you.

Achievement

Learning a new language is a an achievement anyone can be proud of and is extremely satisfying. Once the hard work and effort has paid off, you will experience the many benefits associated with learning a new language and you will have a new found confidence.

Learning a new language will open up our world in ways a monoglot would never have the chance of experiencing. Your mind will be constantly be engaged and you will gain an insight into many different cultures. Learning a second language also makes it easier to learn a third, which will certainly broaden your horizons.

Written by Jennifer Smith on behalf of Kwintessential , the translation specialists.

More information about how to improve brain function https://www.themanlyzone.com/naturally-improve-brain-function/

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• April 8, 2024
• Education Advice

9 Benefits of Learning a Second Language

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With the English language being the world’s lingua franca, many English speakers may think it’s not necessary to learn a new one. They aren’t necessarily right. Learning a language never goes to waste. You can use it while in a new country to communicate with the locals so they can help you find your destination or to maybe feel at home after you moved there to teach English to non-English speakers . It can even help you in your job, and your business travels.

Knowing a second language means a whole new literature is in your hands. However, these aren’t the only benefits of learning a second language . There are many more. Here’s our list of nine of them.

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Why Is Learning a Second Language Important?

In today’s increasingly interdependent world, speaking a second language is an essential skill that gives you the ability to communicate and connect with people from all over the world in a quicker and more meaningful way. Connections are now more important than ever, considering the continual globalization of the world’s economy, and knowing a foreign language will always give you a significant advantage.

There are tangible benefits to being bilingual—it can improve your brain and memory functions, boost your creativity and self-esteem,  help in your career opportunities, as well as increase your understanding of the language you already speak. Read on to find out more about the benefits of learning a foreign language.

1. It Stimulates Your Brain

Learning a new language undoubtedly helps your gray matter grow . Acquiring a new language means that you’re going to learn a whole new set of rules of grammar and lexis (whether you find this part amusing or not). While your brain is trying to keep up with the new language’s complexities and take in the new patterns, new developments are happening in the brain. Just like muscles, the brain gets stronger and bigger the more you put it to use.

Nothing challenges the brain like learning a language does. Scientists have established that we use the left side of the brain when speaking our native language. Whereas, second language usage isn’t limited to a specific hemisphere. It uses both of them, increasing the size of the white and grey matter of the brain.

But that is not all; acquiring a new language also helps to stave off cognitive decline and mental aging. Recent research shows that multilingual adults experienced the first signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia at a later age compared to monolinguals. They also researched other variables like health, economic status, educational level, and gender, but none of them contributed as much as the number of languages that person spoke.

2. It Improves Your Attention Span

With the human attention span seemingly narrowing more and more every day, according to many studies, deciding to learn a new language may be the antidote to this situation.  Recent studies show that the average attention span of a person has reduced from twelve to eight seconds. Researchers suggest that learning a new language helps the brain maintain focus and block distractions . This is a result of regularly switching between languages.

When speaking, bilinguals or multilinguals are constantly switching between two or more languages in their head, and this juggling improves the brain’s ability to concentrate on one thing while ignoring other irrelevant information. As one study notes:

“The need to constantly control two languages confers advantages in the executive system, the system that directs cognitive processing. These effects have been demonstrated primarily using visual stimuli and are heightened in children and older adults. Specifically, bilinguals, relative to monolinguals, are better able to monitor conflicting sensory information and tune into a relevant stimulus or stimulus features amid irrelevant information, via a process known as inhibitory control.”

3. More Career Options to Choose From

We are living in a multicultural world; many companies are opening offices overseas to extend their market. So the need for bilingual candidates is greater than ever. By acquiring a foreign language, you will double the number of available jobs for you and climb the career ladder much faster.

In the highly competitive job market , employers are looking to hire someone who stands out from the rest of the candidates. Knowing a foreign language could help you be chosen among many other job applicants. Having a foreign language listed in your CV might be what a potential employer is looking for.

Also, nowadays, people who are proficient in more than one language are high in demand in the job market in all sectors and industries, as the employers consider them to be better communicators and problem solvers. Skills that one master by acquiring a second language.

4. It Boosts Your Creativity

Knowing a foreign language isn’t beneficial only to the brain; it also influences your level of creativity. As a person starts to learn a language, they get familiar with the culture of the place where that language is spoken. The more you learn about new cultures, the more you’ll look at the world around you from different perspectives. The change of views will make you more original, elaborate, and flexible—all qualities of being a creative person.

In addition, learning a new language forces your brain to put words together in creative ways, which stimulates your brain and boosts your creativity. This creativity will spill over into other aspects of your life too. Plus, experts say that being creative improves your well-being , And who are we to argue with experts?

5. It Improves Your First Language

One learns the mother tongue intuitively and without any formal education. Being raised in a society where a particular language is spoken, children start to pick up the language they hear.

However, learning another language is a whole different deal. From the beginning, you’ll get introduced to grammar, vocabulary, idioms, and sentence structure. As you learn more about the second language, you become more conscious of what you know in the first language. While before you couldn’t quite explain the abstract rules and language structure, learning a new language helps you put names to what you learned instinctively in the first language.

Furthermore, you become aware of the differences in structure, vocabulary, grammar, idioms, and sentence structure between the two languages. All of these factors improve comprehension and conversation and can make you better at your first language.

6. You Build Multitasking Skills

Not many people are good at multitasking. However, this often doesn’t apply to bilingual people. They are some of the most experienced when it comes to multitasking. Their brain has been practicing in switching from one language to the other daily. When the brain gets used to this demanding job of switching from one language to another, it isn’t difficult for them to use this skill in other tasks, too.

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A study done by the National Institutes of Health concluded that bilinguals switch tasks faster than monolinguals. They found that bilingual children in their research responded quite well to their multiple computer tasks in comparison to their monolingual fellows.

Other research also found that bilinguals demonstrate more efficient brain functioning than non-bilinguals, and a bilingual person’s brain maintains better task-switching even as they get older.

7. It Slows Down Cognitive Decline

If you still haven’t started and needed another incentive to start learning a new language, here’s one. Learning a language may reduce your chances of getting early onset of cognitive impairments. More than 16 million people in the United States live with cognitive impairment , be it Alzheimer’s, Dementia, or any other disorder. The latest study on the effect of bilingualism in cognitive aging found that people who spoke more than one language regardless of their gender, ethnicity, and occupation experience the onset of cognitive decline four years and a half later than the ones who spoke only one.

While knowing a second language is not exactly the fountain of youth, it definitely helps keep your brain younger.

8. It Improves Your Memory

The brain is compared to muscles for one reason. Seeing that the more physical exercises you do, the more the muscles strengthen and get larger. This aspect applies to the brain too. The more you challenge it, the more the brain expands, and the better it functions.

You can think of learning a language as an exercise for the brain. Having first to understand and then later recall multiple grammar rules and vocabulary, strengthens the memory muscle. That’s why people who know more than one language are more likely to retain information. They’re way better at remembering lists, names, cell phone numbers, and directions than monolinguals.

Don’t believe that? There is actual evidence that learning vocabulary boosts memory . So, delve into another language and give your brain a good workout to strengthen your memory.

9. It Boosts Your Self-Esteem

No one wants to be put in the spotlight, especially when talking in a foreign language when the chances of making mistakes are quite high. Yet, this is what characterizes language learning. It breaks you out of your shell again and again that eventually, you’ll feel comfortable in every situation regardless of whether you’re making mistakes or not.

Nothing beats the confidence you feel when talking to a native speaker in their language. That’s when your self-esteem will sky-rocket. Becoming proficient in a language is like mastering any other skill. Once you’re there, you’ll feel confident and nice about yourself.

The benefits of learning another language are innumerable. Those that we mentioned in our list are just a part of them. Yet, no matter how many lists are out there, no one can convince you of the benefits as much as your own language learning experience will. With that in mind, choose a language that you find exciting and appealing and open the door to the many benefits that come with language proficiency.

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The Bottom Line

Learning a second language is a valuable investment in yourself that can provide numerous benefits, from enhancing cognitive abilities to broadening career opportunities and facilitating cultural exchange. By exploring the world through language, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different perspectives and cultures. 

If you’re interested in pursuing language learning, the University of Potomac offers a range of courses and programs to help you achieve your goals. Don’t hesitate to explore your options and take the first step towards expanding your horizons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of learning a second language.

Learning a second language has numerous benefits, such as improving cognitive abilities, enhancing communication skills, broadening career opportunities, facilitating travel and cultural exchange, and even delaying the onset of age-related mental decline.

How can I learn a second language?

There are several ways to learn a second language, such as taking classes, using language learning software or apps, practicing with native speakers, watching movies or TV shows with subtitles, listening to music or podcasts, and reading books or news articles in the target language.

What is the most useful 2nd language to learn?

The most useful second language to learn depends on your personal goals and interests and the cultural and economic context you are in. However, some of the world’s most widely spoken and influential languages are English, Spanish, Mandarin, French, Arabic, German, Portuguese, Russian, and Japanese.

What are the two hardest languages to learn?

Mandarin Chinese and Arabic are often considered the two hardest languages for English speakers to learn due to their complex writing systems, tonal pronunciation, and grammatical structures that differ significantly from English.

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Why You Should Learn a Second Language and Gain New Skills

May 12, 2020

In The News

One of the most practical ways to make use of your spare time nowadays is to start learning a new skill. 

People who always succeed are those who are keen to learn something new every day - be it learning about other cultures or learning a second language.

At Middlebury Language Schools, we are strong advocates for the importance of mastering a second language. Both personally and professionally, being bilingual can bring you several advantages.

In this article, we will break down some of the benefits of learning a second language and why this skill is one of the most overlooked skills in the world.

LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE !

Why is it important to know more than one language

We live in a multilingual world, where connections are now more important than ever. The world is becoming increasingly globalized and knowing a second language can always give you an unfair advantage.

There are tangible benefits to being bilingual:

• It can help you in your career;
• It can improve your memory and brain functions;
• It can help increase your understanding of the languages you already speak.

A second language can drastically change your career. Living in an interconnected world means that more and more jobs are advertising positions where knowing more than one language is essential. 

As more companies trade internationally and create relationships with other countries, employees are often asked to travel for work, enhance these relationships, or be relocated abroad. 

Besides having more chances of landing a good job or advancing in your career, learning a second language can also give you an insight into other cultures. You will be more prepared and confident to travel the world and explore other people’s ways of living.

Lack of integration is a real problem for most countries. More often than not, this is due to the language barrier. People outside of their home countries end up being isolated, hanging out only with people from similar communities where their language is spoken. 

Learning a second language opens up the opportunity for being part of a community with a different culture, and learning more about the world around us. 

Did you know that being bilingual can also help you master your own language? For example, learning a new language with similar roots can help you learn other languages as well. Take Spanish , Italian , and French from one summer to the next!

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LANGUAGE PROGRAMS !

What are the benefits of learning a second language

As mentioned before, learning a new language is a wonderful benefit in a globalized world. Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of learning a second language.

1. It improves your memory

The more you use your brain to learn new skills, the more your brain’s functions work. Learning a new language pushes your brain to get familiar with new grammar and vocabulary rules. It allows you to train your memory to remember new words, make connections between them, and use them in contextual situations.

2. Enhances your ability to multitask

Time management and multitasking are two skills that will always help you. Multilingual people have the ability to switch between languages. Their ability to think in different languages and be able to communicate in more than one language helps with multitasking.

3. Improves your performance in other academic areas 

Fully immersing yourself in a language learning environment means not only learning the basics of that language. It means learning how to communicate in another language with your peers or participating in extracurricular activities in that specific language. 

What languages are the most useful to learn? Middlebury Language Schools recommends 3 of our 13 languages

Since 1915, Middlebury Language Schools has been one of the nation’s preeminent language learning programs. 

Whether you’re a beginning language learner or working toward an advanced degree, our time-tested programs offer a range of options and opportunities.

Taking the Language Pledge at Middlebury Language Schools means committing to communicate only in the language of your choice for the duration of the program. You will live, play, and learn in a 24/7 environment. 

We offer a wide range of languages you can choose from. Here are just a few of the languages we offer.

Due to many geopolitical reasons, the Russian language is not very closely related to English. It is a very challenging language to learn, with complex grammar and syntax rules. However, it is an extremely culturally and politically relevant language. 

At the School of Russian , you can experience the most effective method for rapid language acquisition. An immersion environment is a promise that you will read, write, speak, and listen only in Russian throughout the duration of the program. Some of the benefits of learning Russian at Middlebury Language Schools include interpreting poetry, learning about the culture, and mastering the Russian etiquette.

LEARN RUSSIAN !

Arabic has been one of our most popular languages. It is a high demand language because it can get you ahead in a government career, but also give you endless opportunities in business and international relations. 

Arabic is spoken by more than 300 million people and is one of the top 5 most spoken languages in the world. Learning Arabic as a second language can help you learn about the Arabic culture and religion. It not only gives you opportunities to expand your connections, but also offers great travel opportunities. 

A summer at the Arabic School will help you experience the immersive environment on campus. At Middlebury Language Schools, the focus is on Modern Standard Arabic, with optional Arabic language classes in dialects such as Egyptian, Syrian and Moroccan.

Check out our Arabic graduate programs and Arabic 8-week immersion program for more information.

LEARN ARABIC !

A lot of people agree that Spanish is one of the easiest languages to learn, due to the fact that you read words as they are written. Spanish is the most spoken language in the world after English and is used by more than 400 million people. 

Spanish skills can be a strong asset for communicating and creating relationships not only in Spain, but also in Latin America. 

At the Middlebury School of Spanish , you can engage your mind with topics of interest, from Spanish history to arts and cooking. 

Ready to learn Spanish? Check out Middlebury Language Schools’ 7-week immersion program or the graduate programs .

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Reminders on why you should learn a second language now

We have broken down the benefits of learning a second language and becoming bilingual in a highly globalized world. 

The truth is, learning new skills every day enhances all aspects of your life. By learning new skills, you can increase your career opportunities, find out more about the world around you, and be a better person overall.

We highly encourage you to start learning a new language as early in your life as possible. However, you are never too old to learn! The world moves fast, and we must keep up with the changes - by developing new skills, learning more about ourselves, and also, learning a new language!

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The Benefits of Knowing a Second Language Essay

1. introduction.

The ability to communicate in a language other than one's first language is a highly useful and practical skill, and it can be applied almost anywhere – socially, commercially, culturally, politically, and scientifically. From personal experience, I can confidently say that being bilingual has helped me in several ways, academically and in my work life. Consequently, much debate has arisen in the community regarding whether to make a second language compulsory at all schools. In today's world, we are noticing a growing number of foreign language speakers. This is due largely to globalization and the increasing ease of international travel and communication. As more and more people learn and use a multitude of languages for various purposes, the English language grows increasingly global. It is difficult to place a value on learning another language, however, the economic and intellectual benefits that it brings one personally and the wider community are many. If this learning begins at a young age, then so much the better. We live in a linguistically diverse global society. In such a modern-day society, there is a great demand on the labor market for people to fill positions where they are required to speak a language other than English. This is especially so in the public sector. For example, one may be required to talk to patients and their families when working as a doctor or specialist in a hospital. In today's society, there is increasing cultural diversity. Building social inclusiveness and cohesiveness in a community also requires effective communication between people of differing cultural backgrounds. This is impossible without a working knowledge of each other's language.

1.1 Importance of Learning a Second Language

Research has shown that a major factor in building the human capacity in these areas is knowing a second language. In a world of changing migration patterns, improved travel opportunities, and instant global communication, bilingualism and multilingualism are perceived as increasingly desirable personal and professional traits. Further, there is an increased recognition of the importance of, as well as an intrinsic value in, knowing more than one language. However, secondary language learning is not given the attention and resources which the multilingual reality of the 21st century warrants. The reasons for this are complex yet are often linked to systemic undervaluing and underestimating of second language skills and competencies, an often monolingual mindset among the population at large, and a lack of understanding of the cognitive and societal benefits of knowing a second language. Comprehensive research has shown that the development and use of the mother tongue and the ability to develop and use an additional language(s) come together and support each other. Second language learning has been shown to have a positive effect on intellectual growth and enhance mental development. Cognitive research has demonstrated that the transfer from one language to another and the coexistence of two language systems can lead to a greater transfer of concepts and the formation of a more flexible, creative, and complex cognitive system. Children who have studied a language at school have been shown, through various studies, to have higher verbal SAT scores as well as higher academic achievement in reading, language arts, and math. This cognitive function is also continued into old age where studies have shown that those who speak more than one language have a greater chance of avoiding memory loss and other old age cognitive deficiencies.

1.2 Personal and Professional Advantages

Individuals and societies benefit from knowing more than one language. There is an age-old myth that cognitive skills are hindered by learning a second language. However, the general consensus in the scientific community is quite the opposite. Knowledge of a second language can also be viewed as a personal accomplishment in that one has set and achieved a goal. Whether the goal is to read a classic novel in its original language, to order a meal while on holiday, or to interpret for someone else, it is this sense of achievement and the resulting confidence that one can endure from language learning that is its own reward. The work opportunities would also seem to be a great benefit for anyone hoping to add a second language to their skill set. Whether someone is a translator or a language teacher, the knowledge of a second language can open many doors in terms of employment in today's job market. For students coming out of high school, a second language could be the factor that sets them apart when applying for an undergraduate program at various universities. A recent trend in the global market has also seen U.S. companies offer jobs to bilingual people without a college education (dictionary.com). So the knowledge of a second language can also be a skill that brings many people economic success in the future. Lest it also be mentioned that second language learning can serve to foster higher mental flexibility and creativity. Taken as a whole, it is clear that second language learning can offer many cognitive benefits and aid in staving off the mental effects of aging.

1.3 Scope of the Essay

This essay is designed to examine the different aspects of the above reasons and the benefits towards the learners when they have knowledge of a second language. The essay will go through the topic step by step identifying the issues and benefits which can be obtained in learning a second language. Data from the literature will be used to support the essay. This essay will be useful for adult learners who are contemplating learning a second language and for teachers to use as a resource. The essay will first look at globalization and how it has influenced the necessity of being proficient in a second language. It will then examine the cognitive benefits of second language learning and how it can impact on the individual. The next section will target students who are learning a second language and discuss the benefits of immersion and how it can affect their language skills. The essay will then look at the cultural benefits of second language learning and how it can increase acceptance of other cultures and in turn have a benefit on a more tolerant society. It will also discuss the academic benefits for students in foreign language study. The essay will include either it be a personal or as a tool to teach others the benefits second language learning can have on an individual. Finally, the essay will summarize and conclude the findings of the above mentioned topics. Focusing on the extent of the benefits to the learner and the world around them with the aim to persuade the reader to strongly consider learning a second language.

2. Cognitive Benefits

Studies have proven that speaking a second language can noticeably improve cognitive function. Each of these studies helps to paint a clearer picture of how changing the language we conduct our thoughts in can have an effect on the ways our brains are able to function. These cognitive improvements extend beyond the ability to speak a second language, meaning that learning Spanish can improve your ability to perform non-verbal tasks in your native tongue. It is a common belief that those who are bilingual are better at learning languages, an idea which was supported by a study that took place in Connecticut in 2004. The University of Northern Arizona found that children that were enrolled in foreign language studies scored significantly higher in English and Math tests compared to children who were not enrolled in a language program. Dr. Ellen Bialystok conducted a study which aimed to test in which ways bilingualism affects cognitive function. Her results demonstrated that those who are bilingual are better at multitasking than monolinguals. In the sections that follow, we will explore the connections between bilingualism and cognitive enhancement. Our discussion begins with research into inhibitory function, or the mind's ability to filter out information which is considered to be irrelevant or distracting. This is an important preliminary step in determining the success of problem-solving, as one must be able to identify what the problem is and then retain the information and concepts that are required to solve it.

2.1 Enhanced Memory and Problem-Solving Skills

Learning a second language can lead to greater advantages in problem solving because it is a cognitive ability. It has been suggested that older adults who speak more than one language perform better on tasks that require concentration and problem solving than monolinguals. Back to kids who are bilingual, they tend to score higher on such concept formation tasks. There is more a direct initial effect of learning a second language. Empirical research has been able to show the effect of bilingualism on the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The reason why bilingual people have been shown to be more adept at solving problems and strong in the area of concept formation lies in their ability to directly translate a problem and the formation of words that hold a certain meaning. According to Kroll (2001), "Skill in control, therefore, may be less the product of exercising language-specific mechanisms than the result of strategic allocation of cognitive resources to manage input and output process." This pertains to those who are bilingual relative to monolinguals in that problem solving is not a language-specific task but the allocation of resources to execute a solution. Given that language processing involves the same allocation and management of resources, bilingual people who constantly switch between languages may be more adept at resource allocation tasks. Being able to cope with a new language and environment is crucial to problem solving. This is something that surpasses just taking on a job in another town. An extreme change in environment can alter the ability of an individual to solve problems. An immigrant to another country who is learning the language will find it difficult to solve even simple problems if they cannot express themselves in the new language. Furthermore, many immigrants who must learn a new language often find themselves solving problems that can prevent the formation of long-term goals, such as Kurzweil's immigrant father who smashed apart a block of wood and then puzzled over how he would put it back together for months, recalling the piece as an analogy of the family's migration. His father never did attempt to solve the problem, and the pieces of wood were later used for other purposes.

2.2 Improved Multitasking Abilities

The audiences are approached based on the research results that have been obtained. Research results must indeed be something that the audience believes. The results are always based on the study, will bring more benefits to the audience. Here the author has something, with the study of foreign languages it will improve language skills first, not something big when you are a foreign language course you need to improve more of the area discussed there. But the point here is to why a programmer must know a foreign language. A programmer is often asked to translate, because the client giving him a system and when the error client asks a programmer which in turn requires the programmer to have foreign language skills to translate. In addition to translation, an understanding of the framework that is generally a framework of foreign countries and most of the sources on the internet using a foreign language. Then the result of this research will also bring someone to career and economic value implications. A programmer who has the ability of foreign languages will be easier to find a job especially if he has a certified foreign language, because the foreign language is a lot of demand in various areas including programming. Then this also involves the economic value of having an effect has additional skills with a comparison usually for a translation the client is willing to pay more if the resulting translation is good and appropriate, with research results this will increase the understanding of a foreign language is good and right that it adds to the value of the economic as it can job in foreign company. Having a good understanding of foreign languages not only translate but programming field itself has the languages, this is related to the ability of computer programs in the change language according to the desired results, an understanding of foreign languages would be easier in understanding the working principle of each language programs produced in accordance with.

2.3 Increased Creativity and Flexibility

"Increased creativity and flexibility" Perhaps one of the most beautiful benefits of studying a second language is the increased creativity that results. Following the same routine day after day can become drudgery. Livening up a person's speech with another language can free the mind to think in new ways. For example, English speakers learning Spanish might suddenly think about an issue in their life in the same way it's said in Spanish. Instead of calling a friend to blow off steam, they might instead decide to do desahogarse (confide) their problems in a more personal way. Thinking about the word confide might also bring about thoughts of other words with similar sounds or double meanings between the languages. All of this learned from a simple contemplation of an alternate way to deal with a problem, at no real cost. In a study done at York University, it was found that bilingual students were more likely than monolinguals to provide solutions to creativity tests in which it was necessary to "think outside the box". By allowing people to contemplate different personas associated with a second language, or through immersion in a different culture, the flexibility of a person's thinking can be quite drastically altered. Different manners and customs can bring about the realization that there are countless different ways to approaching single situations. This understanding of the world's variability is what many consider to be the pinnacle of knowledge resulting from second language acquisition.

2.4 Heightened Cognitive Reserve

Cognitive reserve is the strength of one's mind that acts as a cushion, preventing memory loss, mental decline, and the onset of symptoms of dementia. Bialystok and Craik found evidence suggesting that being bi or multilingual offers a person great cognitive benefits later in life. They argue that the more a person uses their brain, the better it will function in old age. Using a second language provides a perfect opportunity to challenge the brain and keep it active. Bialystok found that elderly bilinguals scored better than monolinguals in cognitive tests, similarly to Craik who discovered that seniors with a history of using two languages had a 4.1-year advantage in the onset of dementia symptoms over monolinguals. This is backed up by research from the University of York published in the Neurology journal, which found that bilingual Alzheimer's sufferers had been diagnosed 3.6 years later than monolinguals. This is due to speaking a second language requiring the brain to decipher which language to use and which to ignore. Heightened cognitive reserve enables one to lead a more independent life and maintain a higher level of functioning before needing assistance. This is widely recognized by the benefits of education, with substantial evidence showing that those who maintain mental stimulation and keep learning new things are less likely to develop Alzheimer's or suffer cognitive decline. This is mirrored with bilinguals suggesting that actively using a second language has helped them maintain a sharper mind as they grow older. Kakuko Con states, "I am convinced that learning and actually using a foreign language stimulates brain activity, increases learning ability, and promotes a stronger and healthier mental capacity."

3. Cultural and Social Benefits

One of the greatest benefits of learning a second language is that of gaining a greater understanding of the culture. Many language learners come to a point where they are essentially "trapped" at a certain level of proficiency because they are unable to break through the cultural barrier. Language and culture are interconnected, with language reflecting the culture that it was born within. The only way to truly understand the ins and outs of a culture is to understand the language. This understanding of the culture is important in building global bridges. In our modern "globalized" world, understanding the culture of another has never been more important. If we want to prevent conflicts based on cultural misunderstandings, language learners can help to provide a sound understanding of foreign cultures. Also, culture has the tendency to weather periods of isolation and become a relic of the past preserved in the more conservative aspects of a society. There are countless examples of aspects of one's culture or another that cannot be found in a history book, but have been preserved in the language. Learning a language can be a journey through time, giving the learner a chance to pluck out that cultural relic and bring it back to the light to be appreciated by all.

3.1 Cultural Understanding and Appreciation

Acquiring another language and culture is a beautiful and complex task. It's also very rewarding to see the world from another perspective. When using a second language, one is often looking into the society of that language. With a language comes a culture, there's no way to separate the two. In language classes, educators can provide information on the cultural practices of the societies that speak the language. The cultural norms are often reflected in the language, so by understanding the language you can usually understand the culture. For example, Hispanic societies have a more relaxed perception of time compared to the structured and often hectic lifestyles of the United States. A Spanish teacher might explain this to students, so when they learn to speak Spanish they can understand why Spaniards might be late for an event. By understanding the culture of a given society, one can avoid cultural misunderstandings in that society. You will feel more at ease interacting with people from the culture and understand their reactions to you. Imagine if someone from another culture did not understand why you do the things you do, they might pass a judgement without understanding your true intentions. A Japanese person might exchange business cards upon meeting someone as a gesture of goodwill and hopes for future relations. If the foreigner doesn't understand this custom and doesn't exchange cards, the Japanese person might feel that the foreigner is disrespectful. An understanding of the Japanese custom in this situation could prevent a misunderstanding.

3.2 Enhanced Communication and Empathy

Being fluent in another language changes your sense of empathy. Often, people learning a new language start realizing that directly translating sentences, idioms or jokes makes absolutely no sense in the other language. This leads them to closely consider the other meaning, connotation or context for a word, and opens their mind to the fact that a single word can denote many different ideas. As well, people with a second language have learned the hard way that strong emotions are difficult to express when you lack the vocabulary to do so. This leads to using other outlets besides verbal communication, such as actions or giving up and using a dictionary, and in the end leads to a broader understanding of non-verbal communication. When there are no words to hide behind, body language, facial expressions or simply holding someone become a more sincere form of communication. All of these various methods of language skills greatly enhance empathy and understanding of other forms of human expression. In closing, there are certainly few people who would not benefit in some way from learning a second language. In the rapidly changing world of the 21st century, it is no longer sufficient to think strictly in one language and expect to communicate effectively with the full range of human diversity. Although the personal and professional reasons people take up a language are widely varied, ranging from family ties to archaeological curiosity, the end result is a benefit to every facet of a person's life. Whether it be with a sharper intellect and keener mind, a more sincere empathetic understanding for other human beings, or the ability to form endless social and professional networks, a second language is an essential tool for keeping an open mind in our modern global society.

3.3 Expanded Social and Professional Networks

There is no doubt that in our globally connected society, there is a demand for multilingual professionals. Knowing and understanding many languages can create new opportunities and distinguish individuals from others in today's ultra-competitive job market. It increases the chances of getting a good job, or maintaining a current one, while also opening the door to work overseas. Employers are looking for business professionals who are fluent in one or more foreign languages and can work comfortably with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. In a recent survey of executives from 63 cities around the world, over two-thirds said that job prospects and economic potential are higher for an individual who knows a second language. They also agreed that if given two equally qualified candidates, the one who knows a second language is going to be more appealing to a potential employer. A second language can be the make or break point in getting a job in this increasingly competitive economy, it is a very useful skill that sets a candidate apart from another. Whether you are looking to start a new career or advance in your current one, becoming multilingual is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.

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Paragraph on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

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In an informative paragraph , the benefits of learning a second language are highlighted. With an encouraging tone , it emphasizes cognitive, cultural, and professional advantages, enriching personal growth and broadening horizons.

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Short Paragraph on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Learning a second language offers numerous benefits, including improved cognitive abilities and enhanced communication skills. It opens up opportunities for personal and professional growth by allowing individuals to connect with different cultures and communities. Additionally, bilingualism can improve problem-solving abilities and boost creativity. Overall, learning a second language enriches one’s life in many ways.

Medium Paragraph on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

The benefits of learning a second language are extensive, impacting both personal and professional aspects of life. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills, memory, and creativity. Learning a new language also allows individuals to connect with different cultures, fostering greater cultural understanding and empathy. Professionally, being bilingual can open up job opportunities and provide a competitive edge in the global job market. Additionally, it improves communication skills, making it easier to interact with people from diverse backgrounds. Overall, learning a second language enriches one’s life by broadening perspectives and enhancing cognitive and social abilities.

Long Paragraph on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

The benefits of learning a second language are manifold, offering significant advantages in both personal and professional realms. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Bilingual individuals often find it easier to multitask and have better attention spans. Learning a new language also provides deeper insights into different cultures, fostering empathy, and cultural appreciation. This cultural connection enriches travel experiences and broadens social interactions. Professionally, bilingualism is highly valued, opening up job opportunities and giving individuals a competitive edge in the global market. Employers often seek bilingual candidates for their ability to communicate with a wider range of clients and colleagues. Moreover, it improves overall communication skills, helping individuals express themselves more clearly and effectively. The process of learning a second language also instills discipline and perseverance, qualities that are beneficial in many areas of life. In essence, acquiring a second language is a valuable investment in one’s personal growth and professional development, enhancing cognitive abilities, cultural understanding, and communication skills.

Tone-wise Paragraph Examples on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Formal tone.

The benefits of learning a second language are substantial, impacting both cognitive development and professional opportunities. On a cognitive level, learning another language enhances memory, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. It also fosters greater cultural understanding and empathy by exposing individuals to different cultures and perspectives. Professionally, bilingualism provides a competitive advantage in the global job market, opening up diverse job opportunities and facilitating communication with a broader range of clients and colleagues. Additionally, learning a second language improves overall communication skills, making interactions more effective. Overall, acquiring a second language is a valuable investment in personal growth and professional success.

Informal Tone

Learning a second language is really beneficial in so many ways. It boosts your brainpower, improving memory and problem-solving skills. Plus, it helps you connect with different cultures, making travel and social interactions more interesting. On the job front, being bilingual can give you a big advantage, opening up more opportunities and making you more marketable. Overall, learning another language can really enrich your life, both personally and professionally.

Persuasive Tone

Consider the numerous benefits of learning a second language. It enhances cognitive abilities like memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, it fosters cultural understanding and empathy, allowing you to connect with people from different backgrounds. Professionally, bilingualism provides a significant competitive edge, opening up diverse job opportunities and improving communication skills. Make the choice to learn a second language and invest in your personal growth and professional success.

Reflective Tone

Reflecting on the benefits of learning a second language, it is clear how enriching this skill can be. It boosts cognitive functions such as memory and problem-solving abilities, and enhances creativity. Learning a new language also deepens cultural understanding and empathy, allowing for meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds. Professionally, being bilingual opens up numerous opportunities and provides a competitive edge in the job market. Overall, learning a second language is a valuable investment in both personal growth and professional development.

Inspirational Tone

Embrace the incredible benefits of learning a second language. This skill enhances cognitive abilities like memory and problem-solving, while also boosting creativity. Learning a new language allows you to connect deeply with different cultures, fostering empathy and understanding. On a professional level, bilingualism opens up a world of opportunities, giving you a significant edge in the global job market. Let the journey of learning a second language inspire you to grow personally and professionally, enriching your life in countless ways.

Optimistic Tone

Learning a second language offers wonderful benefits that can positively impact your life. It improves cognitive abilities such as memory and problem-solving skills, and boosts creativity. Additionally, it allows you to connect with different cultures, enhancing your travel experiences and social interactions. Professionally, being bilingual provides a competitive edge, opening up diverse job opportunities. Embrace the opportunity to learn a second language and enjoy the many advantages it brings to your personal and professional life.

Urgent Tone

Now is the time to recognize the vital benefits of learning a second language. This skill enhances cognitive abilities like memory, problem-solving, and creativity. It also fosters cultural understanding and empathy, allowing for meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Professionally, bilingualism provides a significant edge in the job market, opening up numerous opportunities. Act now to invest in your personal and professional growth by learning a second language, and experience the transformative benefits it brings.

Word Count-wise Paragraph Examples on the Benefits of Learning a Second Language

The benefits of learning a second language are extensive, impacting both personal and professional aspects of life. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills, memory, and creativity. Learning a new language also allows individuals to connect with different cultures, fostering greater cultural understanding and empathy. Professionally, being bilingual can open up job opportunities and provide a competitive edge in the global job market. Additionally, it improves communication skills, making it easier to interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

The benefits of learning a second language are extensive, impacting both personal and professional aspects of life. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills, memory, and creativity. Learning a new language also allows individuals to connect with different cultures, fostering greater cultural understanding and empathy. Professionally, being bilingual can open up job opportunities and provide a competitive edge in the global job market. Additionally, it improves communication skills, making it easier to interact with people from diverse backgrounds. Overall, learning a second language enriches one’s life by broadening perspectives and enhancing cognitive and social abilities. It is a valuable investment in personal and professional growth.

The benefits of learning a second language are manifold, offering significant advantages in both personal and professional realms. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Bilingual individuals often find it easier to multitask and have better attention spans. Learning a new language also provides deeper insights into different cultures, fostering empathy, and cultural appreciation. This cultural connection enriches travel experiences and broadens social interactions. Professionally, bilingualism is highly valued, opening up job opportunities and giving individuals a competitive edge in the global market. Employers often seek bilingual candidates for their ability to communicate with a wider range of clients and colleagues. Moreover, it improves overall communication skills, helping individuals express themselves more clearly and effectively. The process of learning a second language also instills discipline and perseverance, qualities that are beneficial in many areas of life.

The benefits of learning a second language are manifold, offering significant advantages in both personal and professional realms. On a personal level, it enhances cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Bilingual individuals often find it easier to multitask and have better attention spans. Learning a new language also provides deeper insights into different cultures, fostering empathy, and cultural appreciation. This cultural connection enriches travel experiences and broadens social interactions. Professionally, bilingualism is highly valued, opening up job opportunities and giving individuals a competitive edge in the global market. Employers often seek bilingual candidates for their ability to communicate with a wider range of clients and colleagues. Moreover, it improves overall communication skills, helping individuals express themselves more clearly and effectively. The process of learning a second language also instills discipline and perseverance, qualities that are beneficial in many areas of life. In essence, acquiring a second language is a valuable investment in one’s personal growth and professional development, enhancing cognitive abilities, cultural understanding, and communication skills. The process of learning a second language also instills discipline and perseverance, qualities that are beneficial in many areas of life. In essence, acquiring a second language is a valuable investment in one’s personal growth and professional development, enhancing cognitive abilities, cultural understanding, and communication skills.

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The Benefits of Learning a Second Language: 3 Best Examples

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Home — Essay Samples — Science — Second Language — The Benefits Of Speaking A Second Language

The Benefits of Speaking a Second Language

• Categories: Second Language

About this sample

Words: 550 |

Published: Mar 14, 2019

Words: 550 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Second Language

Works cited.

• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. (2017). World languages education: Unlocking potential. ACTFL.
• DeKeyser, R. (2017). Skill acquisition theory. In P. D. MacIntyre, T. Gregersen, & S. Mercer (Eds.), Positive psychology in SLA (pp. 67-84). Multilingual Matters.
• Dewaele, J. M., & Li, W. (2013). Emotions in multilingualism. Multilingual Matters.
• Genesee, F., & Nicoladis, E. (2006). Bilingual first language acquisition. In E. Hoff & M. Shatz (Eds.), Blackwell Handbook of Language Development (pp. 324-342). Blackwell Publishing.
• Grosjean, F. (2010). Bilingual: Life and reality. Harvard University Press.
• Krashen, S. (1981). Second language acquisition and second language learning. Pergamon Press.
• Lightbown, P. M., & Spada, N. (2013). How languages are learned. Oxford University Press.
• Pacheco, M. (2019). The importance of learning a second language. Enrichment Journal, 24(2), 112-119.
• Paradis, J., Genesee, F., & Crago, M. (2010). Dual language development and disorders: A handbook on bilingualism and second language learning. Paul H. Brookes Publishing.
• Thomas, W. P., & Collier, V. P. (2002). A national study of school effectiveness for language minority students' long-term academic achievement. Center for Research on Education, Diversity, and Excellence, University of California. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED474175).

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Persuasive Essay: The Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Have you ever had this thought, “What will look good on my college application?” Most students have. There is one thing that can influence a college’s or company’s decision for the better about accepting or hiring a person, and this is by learning a second language. As people from other countries continue to immigrate into America, it is becoming more important than ever to learn a second language, even simply to appear more marketable and have something to set an applicant apart from their competitors. One of these benefits includes how great it looks on applications for just about anything. Others include the convenience when traveling, making new friends, improving the fluency of the speaker’s native language, having a type of a secret code among friends, and preventing Alzheimer’s. There are many reasons for knowing multiple languages that look good on applications. First, on college applications, it shows that the applicant is willing to devote time and energy into learning something. This in turn, will show the reviewer that you would be willing to work hard on college studies as well. On a job application it makes an employee more marketable because even if it is an employee at McDonald’s, there is always the possibility that a customer might not speak English. If you know this other language you would be able to communicate with the customer. Also focusing on the McDonald’s example, if an applicant and another potential employee had exactly the same qualifications the company would look for little things to set the two apart. The fact that you know another language is a huge achievement. That makes the person unique when compared to other candidates. Another reason is that many companies have sister companies in other parts of the world or do business with companies in other locations. Knowing the language of the other company’s country would make someone stand out in the sea of applicants. By knowing this language the applicant would be able to communicate with people from the company to solve problems. This could also increase the possibility to travel abroad to the location. One major part of learning a language is often being able to travel to a foreign country. Being able to speak the native language has many benefits in and of itself. When you travel to another country you are truly representing America. David Barry made this, “Americans who travel abroad for the first time are often shocked to discover that, despite all the progress that has been made in the last 30 years, many foreign people still speak in foreign languages.” By putting forth the effort to speak with people in their own language it shows that the traveler is doing their best to take care of themself in a different environment. The locals can see their effort and are more willing to help. It’s also good because this way the traveler can navigate, go to restaurants, and speak with the locals without the help of a friend or translator. Speaking to the locals is often a highlight of many people’s trips. It gives insight on a new way of life and can develop new friendships. It is easy to get to know people with whom we have much in common. These are people with whom we would most easily bond.. Now, what if these people spoke two entirely different languages? They may not even meet each other simply because they couldn’t understand each other. If one or both of them learned the other person’s language, they could create a lifetime friendship. Especially with social networking at an all-time high, the ability to converse with people from around the globe becomes easier each time a new website is created. Often times the creators learn other languages to help their website to appeal to people of other cultures. Many scholars, authors, artists, poets, and other people of professions that require an excellent grasp of their own language, study another language as well. This is often because learning another language helps to improve your English. For most people, the beauty of their own language is taken for granted because they have nothing to compare it to. When studying a foreign language students are able to see how the sentence structure differs from their own language as well as the vocabulary and conversational aspects. Often times, people are taken aback when studying languages such as French or Spanish due to how melodic the sentences sound. Or, as is the case with languages such as Chinese or Japanese, people are confused, but intrigued, at how the simple change in pitch can create a new word. The way that ideas are presented in other languages are often different than they are presented in English. Learning another language can help you to construct your sentences in a way that is more meaningful, creative, and precise than it would have otherwise been. With this, an author’s writing will become more fluid and will have an effect on more people. One fun reason to learn another language is that if the student has study it with a friend, both of you can converse without others knowing what you are saying. This is something that can be immensely helpful when speaking to family about private matters while out in public, or making important decisions in public. For example, a person may be making a large purchase, such as a car, and want to discuss some of its issues but you don’t want to have others eavesdropping. In this situation you could use your other language, especially if it is a language that not many people study, to talk to whoever came along with you. Eavesdropping is something that everyone does, but also something that everyone hates. This problem is easily avoided if the student studies a language that not many people study. Another way to help this is if you can find someone to study with. That, in and of itself, is encouragement. It keeps you accountable and learning with a friend is much more enjoyable. Did you know that there is an effective way to help the minds of you and your loved ones? An average of 1,252 people per day are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. With the astonishing numbers such as this one, about a million people are affected indirectly, at least, each day; Alzheimer’s disease is a real concern to most people. As may develop Alzheimer’s or another type of cognitive disorder as they age. Many studies have found that bilingual people, who begin to develop these types of disorders, although their physical condition may be similar, retain normal mental ability for much longer. Monolingual people begin suffering the effects much sooner. Although they both suffer, these studies suggest that it can prevent the onset Alzheimer’s for as long as a few years before it the disease takes its toll on their brain. This is because the part of your brain that it first affects is protected by the exercise you have provided it with. This “exercise” is how the brain keeps from meshing the two languages together in your mind. Learning this new language helps because it creates new neural pathways, the more neural pathways that are created, the more “backup” the brain has once the disease starts to have an effect. What many people don’t realize until it’s too late is that prevention is often preferable to the treatment. With so many benefits at the price of about an hour a day, it is shocking that more people are not learning new languages. Even those who already know a second language can only be benefited by the new knowledge of another language. People who live in a larger city, one which has a community of Chinese, Italian, or Hispanic population along with many others, have the advantage of being submerged in another language. By showing an interest in learning the language anyone can gain new friends, a healthier brain, a new secret code against the narrow minded, and a new skill to create an outstanding résumé. As an added bonus, studies show that the easiest way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it. As students, increasing the number of skills to add to applications for college is crucial. It shows that the student is hardworking, well rounded, and has ambition. As difficult as learning a language can be, it is well worth the time, money, and energy spent on the endeavor.

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Speaking more than one language may boost brain function as well as gray and white matter, and possibly preserve the brain as it ages.

Q&A — Psycholinguist Mark Antoniou

How a second language can boost the brain

Being bilingual benefits children as they learn to speak — and adults as they age

By Ramin Skibba 11.29.2018

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Even when you’re fluent in two languages, it can be a challenge to switch back and forth smoothly between them. It’s common to mangle a split verb in Spanish, use the wrong preposition in English, or lose sight of the connection between the beginning and end of a long German sentence. So — does mastering a second language hone our multitasking skills or merely muddle us up?

This debate has been pitting linguists and psychologists against one another since the 1920s, when many experts thought that bilingual children were fated to suffer cognitive impairments later in life. But the science has marched on. In the Annual Review of Linguistics , psycholinguist Mark Antoniou of Western Sydney University in Australia outlines how bilingualism — as he defines it, using at least two languages in your daily life — might benefit our brains, especially as we age . He addresses how best to teach languages to children and lays out evidence that multiple-language use on a regular basis may help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

What are the benefits of bilingualism?

I’m interested in the interaction between language-learning and cognition — the mental processes of the brain. The cognitive benefits of bilingualism can begin from experiences very early in childhood and can persist throughout life.

The first main advantage involves what’s loosely referred to as executive function. This describes skills that allow you to control, direct and manage your attention, as well as your ability to plan. It also helps you ignore irrelevant information and focus on what’s important. Because a bilingual person has mastery of two languages, and the languages are activated automatically and subconsciously, the person is constantly managing the interference of the languages so that she or he doesn’t say the wrong word in the wrong language at the wrong time.

The brain areas responsible for that are also used when you’re trying to complete a task while there are distractions. The task could have nothing to do with language; it could be trying to listen to something in a noisy environment or doing some visual task. The muscle memory developed from using two languages also can apply to different skills.

Where are these benefits expressed in the brain?

Executive functions are the most complex brain functions — the most “human” functions that separate us from apes and other animals. They’re often observed in parts of the brain that are the newest, in evolutionary terms: the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for advanced processing; the bilateral supramarginal gyri, which play a role in linking words and meanings; and the anterior cingulate. Studies show that the bilingual experience alters the structure of these areas.

First of all, we see increases in gray matter volume. The brain is made up of cells called neurons, which each have a cell body and little branching connections called dendrites. Gray matter refers to how many cell bodies and dendrites there are. Bilingual experience makes gray matter denser, so you have more cells. This is an indication of a healthier brain.

Results from a study measuring gray-matter volumes in monolingual or bilingual undergraduates. Red areas indicate where gray-matter volumes were greater in one group versus the other. In total, study participants who spoke both English and Spanish had greater gray-matter volume compared to participants who spoke only English.

CREDIT: ADAPTED FROM O.A. OLULADE ET AL / CEREBRAL CORTEX 2016

Bilingualism also affects white matter, a fatty substance that covers axons, which are the main projections coming out from neurons to connect them to other neurons. White matter allows messages to travel fast and efficiently across networks of nerves and to the brain. Bilingualism promotes the integrity of white matter as you age. It gives you more neurons to play with, and it strengthens or maintains the connections between them so that communication can happen optimally.

Can teaching children two languages delay or confuse their understanding?

These myths about bilingualism date back to studies in the US and the UK from the First and Second World Wars. They were seriously flawed studies involving children from war-torn countries: refugees, orphans and, in some cases, even children who were in concentration camps. Their schooling had been disrupted for years. They may have suffered traumas, and then they participated in these studies with tests measuring their verbal language abilities.

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Unsurprisingly, they scored very poorly on these tests. Did the researchers attribute the poor scores to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? They probably didn’t even know what that was. No, instead they attributed it to the children’s bilingualism.

It wasn’t until the 1960s, when a really important study was published by Elizabeth Peal and Wallace Lambert at McGill University in Montreal, that views started to shift. Their findings showed that not only do bilingual children not have a cognitive delay or mental retardation but that their bilingualism actually has some cognitive benefits .

In addition to executive function, bilingual individuals and children show advantages in metalinguistic awareness. This is the ability to think about language as abstract units and associations. A good example is the letter H, which is associated with the sound “he” in English, with “n” as in “nickel” in Russian, and with the vowel sound “e” in Greek. There’s nothing special about H that makes it have to have a “he” sound; a bilingual person understands this more readily than a monolingual person does.

Studies show that learning a language increases the volume and density of gray matter, the volume of white matter, and brain connectivity. In older language learners, some studies show cognitive benefits beyond languages, such as for working memory. The findings for older learners have been more mixed than for younger language learners, but the research is in earlier stages.

What do the skeptics argue?

The original findings about bilingual advantages to executive function in the 1960s generated a lot of excitement and media interest. Perhaps the advantages were overstated or misinterpreted. Not every bilingual person is going to have a healthier brain than every monolingual person. We’re talking about general, population-level trends.

We see evidence of bilingual advantages in children, but not always. And as we move into young adults, say, in their 20s, it becomes more difficult to detect these advantages. This makes sense in terms of brain maturation: When you’re a child, your brain is still developing, but when you reach young adulthood, your brain is at its peak, so bilingualism doesn’t give you much extra.

Learning languages as a child is different than doing so later in life, right?

It depends. For a long time, it was thought that the only way to really learn a language was to do it early. It was thought that after adolescence, you couldn’t learn a language perfectly. You were always going to be accented. But we now know that that’s not true, because there are many people who learn languages as adults, and they learn them very well. So this has led us to reexamine what it is about learning a language during childhood that makes it different from adulthood.

Is your brain more ready and more flexible — what we call more “plastic” — when you’re a child, and then it becomes more rigid and fixed as an adult? Or is it that the conditions of language-learning are different when you’re a child, in terms of the amount and type of input you receive, how much slack you’re afforded and how much encouragement others give you? An adult who is working two jobs and going to language classes at 7 o’clock at night has a different type of acquisition than a child constantly receiving input from the mother, grandmother, father or other primary caregiver.

Ultimately, the difference between language-learning in children and adults is probably some combination of the two: plasticity and conditions. There are also individual differences. If you put different people in the same situation, some people will flourish and others will struggle.

Does a bilingual brain age differently than a monolingual one?

We know from studies that starting at the age of about 25, your brain starts to decline, in terms of working memory, efficiency, processing speed, those kinds of things. As you age, these declines become steeper. The argument is that as we get into older age, bilingualism puts the brakes on and makes that decline less steep. Evidence from older adults is the strongest kind supporting a bilingual advantage. (The second strongest comes from children.)

When you look at bilingual individuals who have suffered neurodegeneration, their brains look damaged. From their brain scans, you’d think these people should be more forgetful, or that they shouldn’t be coping as well as they are. But that’s not the case. A bilingual brain can compensate for brain deterioration by using alternative brain networks and connections when original pathways have been destroyed. Researchers call this theory “cognitive compensation” and conclude that it occurs because bilingualism promotes the health of both gray and white matter.

As bilingual individuals age, their brains show evidence of preservation in the temporal and parietal cortices. There also is more connectivity between the frontal and posterior parts of the brain compared with monolingual people, enhancing cognitive reserve.

Could learning a language later in life keep Alzheimer’s at bay?

That is a working hypothesis. We’re doing studies where we teach a foreign language to people aged 65 and up with the goal of promoting healthy brain function, even at such a late point in life. What we’re testing is: Can we help people in old age by using language-learning? Does that give you some benefit in terms of a “use it or lose it” approach to brain health?

The initial signs are encouraging. Preliminary data look good. It seems that learning a language in later life results in positive cognitive outcomes.

Because language-learning and use is so complex — arguably the most complex behavior we human beings engage in — it involves many levels. You have speech sounds, syllables, words, grammar, sentences, syntax. There’s so much going on; it really is a workout for a wide brain network. And those areas of the brain overlap with the ones in which aging adult brains show decline or neurological pathological disease. As a result, we argue that learning a second language would be an optimal activity to promote healthy aging.

But not enough studies have been done to settle this once and for all. And we don't know any of the details. How much language experience is needed? Does it matter which languages you learn? Do you need to achieve a certain level of proficiency? We don’t have answers to these questions.

What advice do you have for parents raising bilingual children?

My advice would be to be encouraging and patient. Bilingual children have a tougher task than those learning only a single language. They’re learning two sets of vocabulary and speech sounds. It can be challenging for those of us living in a country with a dominant language to establish a functional purpose for the second language. A child needs to feel that the language is practical and has a use. Grandparents are great for this, and so is living in a community where there are cultural events or schools where children can be immersed in the second language.

Another concern parents bring up is worrying that their child might be mixing the languages. Don’t worry about what we refer to as “code mixing.” It’s a perfectly normal part of bilingual development. They’re not confused. It’s thought to be a sign of bilingual proficiency or competence to mix up the languages.

What other research are you doing in this area?

I’m interested in trying to understand why sometimes we see a bilingual effect, and other times we don’t. In one article, I proposed that maybe the language pairing matters . If you speak two distant languages, like Mandarin Chinese and English, would that result in similar types of brain changes as speaking two closely related languages, like German and English?

Maybe if the languages are closely related, they’re competing more and you have a harder job of separating them, to avoid using the wrong word at the wrong time. Maybe if they’re more distant, then you can’t rely on prior knowledge from learning the first one to learn the second. In that case, you’re starting from scratch with the second language, and that’s more effortful at the initial learning stages. But once you’ve learned the two languages, perhaps there’s less competition.

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TAKE A DEEPER DIVE | Explore Related Scholarly Articles

The Advantages of Bilingualism Debate

Psycholinguist Mark Antoniou evaluates the latest research on the benefits of bilingualism to the brain. He argues that learning and speaking multiple languages can delay Alzheimer's disease and compensate for neurodegeneration as one ages.

Bilingualism, Mind, and Brain

Psychologist Judith Kroll reviews the literature on how bilingualism affects language processing in the brain. Despite some arguments that being bilingual can complicate how one processes language, the relevant parts of the brain easily adapt.

Debunking common myths about raising bilingual children

Antoniou refutes claims that teaching children two languages confuses them or delays their development.

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12 Surprising Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Why should you learn a second language?

There are several obvious reasons. It’s fun and it allows you to communicate with people from other countries. If you’re going to travel abroad, you probably need at least basic language skills.

But there are a number of other surprisingly powerful benefits from learning a second language. Most people are unaware of these benefits.

If you need yet another reason to study a second language, pay attention. You’re about to discover 12 surprising benefits of studying a second language.

BENEFIT #1: It Forces You To Think Deeply

Learning a second language forces you to think in new ways. You’re forced to grapple with grammar rules, word meaning, prefixes, suffixes, and a host of other new challenges. This sustained thinking develops your ability to think deeply, express concepts in new ways, and solve problems from new angles. Learning a second language teaches to you to think in ways you’ve never traditionally done.

BENEFIT #2: Your Ability To Switch Between Tasks Is Increased

Switching between tasks can be hugely challenging if you’re not used to it. It requires disengaging from one activity, switching to a new mindset, and then fully engaging in a different activity. As the American Psychological Association wrote:

[A]lthough switch costs may be relatively small, sometimes just a few tenths of a second per switch, they can add up to large amounts when people switch repeatedly back and forth between tasks. Thus, multitasking may seem efficient on the surface but may actually take more time in the end and involve more error. Meyer has said that even brief mental blocks created by shifting between tasks can cost as much as 40 percent of someone’s productive time.

When you learn a second language, you become much more proficient at switching between tasks and the toll on your productivity is significantly minimized.

BENEFIT #3: Your Brain Becomes More Resistant To Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Believe it or not, learning a second language can significantly delay the onset of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. This has been proven in several multilingual studies.

Speaking of one particular study, Alissa Sauer wrote:

After evaluating the participants, researchers found that those who spoke a second language delayed certain types of dementia by an average of 4.5 years. There was no additional benefit to those who spoke more than two languages and education, gender, and occupation had no effect on the delay.

Alzheimer’s is one of the leading killers in the United States and is a terrible disease. It is, essentially, a slow death. Being able to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s for even a year is significant, but for 4.5 years is an enormous benefit.

BENEFIT #4: Memory Is Significantly Improved

Memory is, in many ways, like a muscle. It is strengthened by working out. One unfortunate downside of the internet is that it has significantly weakened our memories. We can simply search for whatever we want with zero need to remember anything.

Learning a second language forces you to work your memory on a regular basis. It forces you to think hard about things and to store things in your short term and long term memory.

The Journal Of Experimental Psychology reported that bilingual children consistently outperform monolingual children in tasks requiring working memory.

If you find your memory slipping, making the effort to learn a second language can be a huge step in the right direction.

BENEFIT #5: Increased Creativity

It’s no secret that trying to speak a foreign language forces you to put language together in creative ways. This stimulates your brain and boosts your creative capacity. Once your creative juices are flowing, they will spill over into many other aspects of your life, such as your relationships and your livelihood. And as some suggest, being creative can even make you happier .

BENEFIT #6: Intelligence Is Increased

This sounds like infomercial hype, but there is legitimate scientific researching backing this benefit. It turns out that learning a second language has been shown to raise overall intelligence levels and reading levels.

This has broad implications. If you just want to be generally smarter (and who doesn’t?), you should consider learning a new language. And, if you or your child struggles with reading, adopting a second language can be a powerful boost.

No, learning a second language won’t turn you into a genius, but it can up your overall intelligence levels.

BENEFIT #7: Decision Making Skills Are Improved

One of the biggest hindrances to making good decisions is biases. Our biases cloud our judgment and can lead us to choose poorly when presented with a multitude of options.

Learning a second language has been shown to reduce our “heuristic biases”, which is one of the key factors in decision making. In other words, when we are presented with a series of choices, we are less reliant on our inherent (and often faulty) biases. Instead, we are able to choose based more on logic than gut feelings.

Heuristics are the series of simple rules we use to evaluate decisions. These consist of mental shortcuts that focus on a single issue of a complex problem and ignore other factors. For example, when asked if more English words begin with “K” or have “K” as the third letter, we instinctively choose the first option because it’s easy to think of words that begin with “K”. In reality, there are three times as many words with “K” as the third letter, demonstrating that our heuristics are helpful but often misleading.

Learning a second language forces you to think more carefully through problems, which in turn reduces your vulnerability to your instinctive, heuristic biases.

If you regularly find yourself making poor choices, learning a second language could be a lifesaver.

BENEFIT #8: Your Primary Language Skills Are Improved

One of the side benefits of learning a second language is that your primary language skills are also improved. Studying a second language forces you to think through things like vocabulary, conjugation, conversation, idioms, and a host of other things that we rarely think about when speaking our primary language.

Often, a person learning a second language becomes much more attuned to the nuances of the first language. They pick up on subtle things they never would have seen before and often develop a deeper understanding of the language.

While this may not be high on your language priority list, it certainly is a significant benefit.

BENEFIT #9: Increased Skill In Other Subject Matters

Interestingly, studying languages seems to increase other academic abilities such as mathematics. Studies have shown that individuals with a second language tend to perform better on standardized testing like the SAT.

The Center For Languages, Literature, and Culture at Ohio State University wrote :

Research has shown that math and verbal SAT scores climb higher with each additional year of foreign language study, which means that the longer you study a foreign language, the stronger your skills become to succeed in school. Studying a foreign language can improve your analytic and interpretive capacities. And three years of language study on your record will catch the eye of anyone reading your job or college application.

If you want to improve your mathematical ability, one surprising way to do it may be by learning a second language.

BENEFIT #10: Deeper Understanding Of Other Cultures

We often fail to realize how much our language influences our view of the world and other people. Immersing yourself in a foreign language opens new vistas and viewpoints. It allows you to understand other perspectives and embrace views other than your own.

Additionally, when you spend months learning about another culture, it’s difficult to be prejudiced against that culture. Suffice to say, one way to increase compassion and inclusiveness in the world would be to have everyone study a second language.

BENEFIT #11: Increased Career Options

We are increasingly living in a multicultural world. Companies open offices overseas, and remote jobs with foreign companies are being created. The need for bilingual individuals is greater than ever.

Learning a second language can, in many ways, double the number of career options available to you. You literally expand your job pool by multiple countries. Additionally, learning a second language can allow you to climb the career ladder faster. Positions within your company that were previously unavailable suddenly are within reach.

BENEFIT #12: Better Concentration Skills

Learning a second language has been shown to significantly improve a person’s ability to concentrate, particularly in environments with many stimuli (think school, dorm, etc.). The reason for this may surprise you. When speaking, bilinguals are constantly juggling two languages in their heads. The primary language is activated and the secondary language must be suppressed.

This constant juggling improves the brain’s ability to focus on one thing while tuning out other things. As one study noted :

The need to constantly control two languages confers advantages in the executive system, the system that directs cognitive processing. These effects have been demonstrated primarily using visual stimuli and are heightened in children and older adults. Specifically, bilinguals, relative to monolinguals, are better able to monitor conflicting sensory information and tune into a relevant stimulus or stimulus features amid irrelevant information, via a process known as inhibitory control.

In other words, knowing two languages increases a person’s ability to concentrate on one thing and ignore irrelevant information.

If you struggle with concentration, consider learning a second language!

Learning a second language is beneficial on so many levels. It increases your intelligence, improves your understanding of the world, and opens up new career options for you. It improves your cognitive skills and helps you be more sympathetic to other cultures.

Frankly, this is one of those subjects that has very little downside and tremendous upside. In addition to the benefit of learning a second language, you become a much more rounded person.

Do you see the power of a second language? Now’s the time to get started learning one.

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Frontiers for Young Minds

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What are the Benefits of Learning a Second Language?

Bilingualism, which means speaking more than one language, allows a person to communicate with a larger number of people. Some research suggests that speaking more than one language may also improve brain function. We wanted to see whether the relationship between improved brain function and being bilingual differed based on how well or how much a person uses their second language. To ask our question, we recruited a group of high school students who spoke both Mandarin and English. Because speaking two languages is thought to improve how well a person performs on certain tasks, we thought that the students who were better at their second language would have better performance on those tasks. Our findings support the idea that developing your second language, especially if you speak it well, can improve the way your brain functions. Keep reading to learn about our research!

Why Use Your Second Language?

Most people on Earth can speak at least two languages—they are bilingual . Speaking more than one language allows a person to communicate with a larger number of people. Bilingual people have an easier time when they travel to other parts of the world. They can also work and study outside of their home countries. Research shows that both languages a bilingual person speaks are active in the brain at the same time [ 1 ]. This means a bilingual person must inhibit or “turn off” an unneeded language to communicate successfully. The experience of inhibiting an unneeded but active language may actually help the brain by improving a person’s executive function , which is a set of mental processes that coordinate our thinking and behavior [ 2 ] (To learn more about executive function, see this Frontiers for Young Minds article .). Scientists who study this topic call this brain boost the bilingual advantage .

Not all scientists agree that speaking two languages helps the brain [ 3 ]. Even those that do agree are not exactly sure how being bilingual improves brain function. Some claim that bilingual people have better inhibition . In other words, they are better at ignoring distractions like noise when they are having a conversation. Others say bilingual people are better at monitoring , which means they are better at paying attention to their environments. For example, they might be better at noticing when a person switches from using one language to another. The way that speaking two languages improves brain function seems to depend a lot on the person and their individual language experience [ 4 ].

Do People Have Different Language Experiences?

It turns out that bilingual people differ a lot in their language experiences including how well they use their languages and how much they use them. For example, a teen from China who speaks Chinese (Mandarin) and English might never use English in their home country. However, they would use it a lot if they attended school in the UK. Bilingual people in the same city also differ a lot in their language habits. A Mandarin-English bilingual person studying in the UK might have a group of friends who always speak Mandarin, while another might have more diverse friends and may communicate in English more often. We wanted to see if these differences between bilingual people influenced executive functions. This means we had to find a way to measure language experience.

How did we Measure Language Experience?

There are many ways to measure language experience. We used a survey called the Language History Questionnaire [ 5 ]. This survey requires a person to answer questions about each language they use. These questions ask things like how well the person can speak, listen, read, or write in each language. The survey also asks how many hours each day the person uses a language. This survey gave us three separate scores that we used to measure language experience: 1) proficiency —how well a person can speak, listen, read, or write in a language; 2) immersion —how long a person has used or been exposed to a language, and; 3) dominance —how often a person uses a language. Together, these scores allowed us to describe a person’s language experience in a lot of detail.

How did we Measure Executive Function?

To test for differences in executive function, we used two popular tasks. The Simon task requires a person to press a button as quickly and accurately as possible when a certain color shape is shown on a screen ( Figure 1 ). For example, a person might be told to press the “Q” button on a computer keyboard with their left hand when they see a brown square, or the “P” button with their right hand when they see a blue square. What makes this task tricky is that the shapes are shown on either the left or right side of the screen. This means that sometimes a person will have to press a button with their right hand when a shape is on the same (right) side of the screen. These congruent trials are easy. However, sometimes a person will have to press a button with their right hand when a shape is on the left side of the screen. The conflict between the side of the screen the shape is on and the response key makes these incongruent trials more difficult. The flanker task is similar to the Simon task, only the conflict is due to a center arrow pointing in the opposite direction of the four surrounding arrows ( Figure 2 ).

• Figure 1 - (A) On the Simon task, students had to press the left button when a blue square appeared.
• This is easy when the square is on the same side as the button. (B) However, this task is harder when the square is on the opposite side as the button! Dashed lines show the response button location.

• Figure 2 - (A) On the flanker task, students had to press the left button if the center arrow was pointing to the left.
• This is easy when all the arrows face the same direction. (B) However, this task is harder when the center arrow is pointing in the opposite direction from the other arrows! Solid lines show the information the student needed to pay attention to, and dashed lines show the information that may help (A) or distract (B) the student.

How did we Answer our Question?

We worked with an international high school in Southern China to conduct our study. This school is special because all the students are native Mandarin speakers, but all their courses are taught in English. We recruited 41 students between the ages of 13–19 and had them complete a few tasks on the Internet. First, each participant filled in the Language History Questionnaire and answered other questions about how often they play video games or musical instruments. Next, they completed the Simon and flanker tasks in random order. Even though these tasks are very similar, studies like ours normally ask people to do more than one task to see if the results are the same. Finally, the students answered a few questions about their stress levels. For each task, we measured how quickly students gave their responses, and whether their responses were correct or not. We included video game and musical instrument experience as well as other variables like age and stress in our analyses to control for their influence on task performance. This helps us to be sure that the results we see have to do with language experience and are not due to other factors.

What did we Find?

Our results were different for each task and each measure of language experience. On the Simon task, higher English proficiency was related to better inhibition, even when we controlled for the influence of other variables ( Figure 3 ). This means students with better English ability were faster on the more difficult, incongruent trials. In other words, they were better at inhibiting the automatic response of pressing the button that matched the side of the screen the shape was presented on. When controlling for other variables, we found the same result when we looked at the number of hours people spent playing musical instruments. This means playing an instrument might further improve inhibition. For the flanker task, higher English proficiency was related to improved monitoring. This means students with higher English proficiency were faster on congruent, incongruent, and neutral trials. In other words, they were better at monitoring the task in order to identify which response was appropriate.

• Figure 3 - (A) Higher English proficiency was associated with better inhibition (faster responses on incongruent trials) on the Simon task.
• (B) Higher English proficiency was also associated with better monitoring (faster response on all trial types) on the flanker task. The colored lines represent the trial types. The blue lines show the difficult, incongruent trials. If we conducted our study again, we are 95% confident that our results would be somewhere in the shaded area around each line.

Surprisingly, students who reported using English more were slower on the flanker task. We did not expect to see this! We think this finding might mean that people using English more are trying to improve their proficiency and might pay more attention to the words they use—which would slow them down. However, this is just our best guess. We will need to conduct another study to see if our guess is correct. Finally, our results were a little different between the Simon and flanker tasks, even though these tasks are very similar. This finding also requires more research because it suggests that these tasks might be measuring slightly different things.

Why Are Our Findings Important?

Our results show that developing proficiency in a second language may improve executive function. We also saw additional improvements in executive function from playing musical instruments. This suggests that bilingualism is just one of many possible experiences that can benefit the brain. These findings are important for young people, especially those in bilingual homes. Sometimes, children do not feel like learning their family’s home language. This might be because it is not the language that the child uses when they go to school. More research is needed to better understand the benefits that using a second language has on the brain. This is especially true for high-school-age bilinguals because only a few studies have been done. We hope that our results highlight the potential benefits of learning a second language. While becoming bilingual is not easy, it is likely worth your time and energy. Who knows? You might even make a new friend!

Bilingual : ↑ A person who can use at least two different languages.

Executive Function : ↑ A set of mental processes, like updating, inhibition, and monitoring, that coordinate a person’s thoughts and actions.

Bilingual Advantage : ↑ A benefit in brain function from speaking two languages.

Inhibition : ↑ Component of executive function that helps people ignore distractions.

Monitoring : ↑ The ability to pay attention to the environment.

Congruent : ↑ Trials where there is no conflict between the stimulus and the response such as a flanker task trial where all arrows are pointing in the same direction.

Incongruent : ↑ Trials where the stimulus and the response conflict such as a flanker task trial where the center arrow is pointing in the opposite direction as the surrounding arrows.

Variable : ↑ A characteristic, like language proficiency, that can change and be measured.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Original Source Article

↑ Privitera, A. J., Momenian, M., and Weekes, B. S. 2022. Task-specific bilingual effects in Mandarin-English speaking high school students in China. Curr. Res. Behav. Sci. 3:100066. doi: 10.1016/j.crbeha.2022.100066

[1] ↑ Kroll, J. F., and Bialystok, E. 2013. Understanding the consequences of bilingualism for language processing and cognition. J. Cogn. Psychol. 25:497–514. doi: 10.1080/20445911.2013.799170

[2] ↑ Friedman, N. P., and Miyake, A. 2017. Unity and diversity of executive functions: individual differences as a window on cognitive structure. Cortex. 86:186–204. doi: 10.1016/j.cortex.2016.04.023

[3] ↑ Paap, K. 2019. “The bilingual advantage debate: quantity and quality of the evidence,” in The Handbook of the Neuroscience of Multilingualism , 701–35.

[4] ↑ Privitera, A. J., Momenian, M., and Weekes, B. 2022. Graded bilingual effects on attentional network function in Chinese high school students. Bilingual. Lang. Cogn . 1–11. doi: 10.1017/S1366728922000803

[5] ↑ Li, P., Zhang, F., Yu, A., and Zhao, X. 2020. Language history questionnaire (LHQ3): an enhanced tool for assessing multilingual experience. Bilingual. Lang. Cogn. 23:938–44. doi: 10.1017/S1366728918001153

• DOI: 10.62051/mjfh7285
• Corpus ID: 271982238

How AI Helps Second Language Learners Acquire Target Language: An Analysis from a Cross-Cultural Perspective

• Chenzhe Xiang
• Published in Transactions on Social… 20 August 2024
• Linguistics, Computer Science, Education
• Transactions on Social Science, Education and Humanities Research

16 References

The scientific review of ai functions of enhancement english learning and teaching, task-based language teaching based on computer-assisted language learning, effects of artificial intelligence on english speaking anxiety and speaking performance: a case study, foreign language vocabulary learning with mobile technologies, emotional factor in students' acculturation in a foreign language class, language learning through mobile technologies: an opportunity for language learners and teachers, research on the application of computer artificial intelligence technology in feedback teaching of english, the playful frame: gamification in a french-as-a-foreign-language class, intelligence unleashed: an argument for ai in education, digital storytelling with chatbots: mapping l2 participation and perception patterns, related papers.

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